Hard Rock announces the winners of its 2011 Awards in recognition of outstanding accomplishments and dedication of employees, franchisees and partners. 

Hard Rock selected the top "rock stars" from more than 171 Hard Rock locations in 52 countries and hundreds of partners worldwide.  The much-anticipated awards were chosen based on financial performance, unique sales accomplishments, community contributions, creativity, strategic marketing, philanthropy, brand loyalty and leadership. 

The ceremony included the highly-coveted awards for "Company Worldwide Cafe of the Year," given to the team at Hard Rock Cafe Rome; "Franchise Cafe of the Year," awarded to Hard Rock Cafe Bengaluru; "Hotel of the Year," presented to the Hard Rock Hotel Orlando; and "Hotel & Casino of the Year" given to Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi.  Award highlights also included "Company General Manager of the Year" for 2010, proudly presented to Dale Swift of Hard Rock Cafe Amsterdam, who received a Harley Davidson motorcycle for his outstanding leadership; and Claude Fayyad of Hard Rock Cafe Sharm el Sheikh, who took home the award for "Franchise General Manager of the Year," along with a check for $10,000. 

Selected from hundreds of brands around the globe, Hard Rock honored several key partners, naming Bacardi U.S.A. as "Global Beverage Partner of the Year" for the fourth consecutive year;  Trident Seafood as "Culinary Partner of the Year"; and Budweiser as "Event Beverage Partner of the Year."  Hard Rock executives also presented the "Project Development Partner of the Year" award to the Friedmutter Group; and the "Retail Partner of the Year" award to Entertainment Outfitters, Inc.; while Kelly Otto received the "Special Partner Recognition" honor.

"Every one of our employees, franchisees and partners bring an outstanding level of dedication and commitment to our brand," said Hamish Dodds, president and CEO, Hard Rock International.  "We are proud to be able to show our sincere appreciation for all members of the Hard Rock family and honor them for their success and achievement."    

Hard Rock International's Global Conference brings together team members from all over the world, including company and franchise-owned cafes, hotels and casinos, as well as key corporate partners in the retail, culinary, beverage and project development industries.  Each year, Hard Rock utilizes the Global Conference as an arena in which to unite all areas of the brand and elevate the Hard Rock experience throughout the world. 

Hard Rock's 2011 Global Conference was held during the grand opening of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana – Hard Rock's first all-inclusive Hotel & Casino, a 121-acre property located on Macao Beach in the Dominican Republic.  The 1,800-room Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana provides an endless array of services, enticing outdoor activities, including an 18-hole Nicklaus-designed golf course, and exhilarating entertainment options. Among the resort's many offerings are luxe accommodations featuring the Hard Rock's branded "Rock Star Suite," the signature Rock Spa®, iconic music memorabilia and a 48,000-square foot Vegas-style casino.

Hard Rock International would like to recognize the winners of the 2011 Awards: